Ertik, a representative from the High Lady of Valshara. Speculation ran wild as for his reason for attending.
Theopolou spent his time exploring the king’s library, reading about the history of the twelve cities. Mohanisi spent most of his time with Linis, who was busy preparing to journey to Sharpstone. From time to time Theopolou would be approached by the kings and queens, and asked about the goings on of the elves. Word had already spread about the battle in Valshara. Most could scarcely believe human and elf had fought side by side. Theopolou politely answered their questions.
By the seventh day, it had been decided to proceed without King Halmara. That night there would be a banquet, then in the morning the council would meet.
A few hours before the banquet, Theopolou returned to his quarters. The flood of questions had steadily increased until the very thought of another conversation caused him to cringe. As he settled into a plush chair and opened a book, there was a soft rap at the door.
He sighed and closed the book. “Come.”
It was Linis. “I want to speak to you before I leave for Sharpstone. Mohanisi is still exploring the city and says he will not be joining you for the banquet.”
“Your company is welcome,” said Theopolou, smiling. “I wish my presence was not required or I would join Mohanisi. Have you spoken to Lord Ganflin?”
“I have,” he replied, taking a seat beside Theopolou. “He is providing me with two dozen men and ten thousand gold, to aid Millet and Dina. He has already sent word to Lord Broin, and I hope to get his help as well.”
Theopolou nodded approvingly. “That is good. You should have enough to raise a sizable force.”
“I hope to send for elves soon,” said Linis. “But I think it best to prepare the people of Sharpstone first. Most people along the Goodbranch have never seen an elf, and only have heard stories of the Great War to form their opinions.”
“I am certain you can ease their fears,” said Theopolou. “When the time comes, send word, and I will send as many as can be spared.” He could see Linis’ expression darken. “What is it?”
Linis sat. “I have heard some disturbing news. The human, Maybell, has just arrived in the Temple of Ayliazarah, here in Althetas. She was a priestess in Kaltinor and traveled with Gewey and Lee, when I first met them. I am told she was accompanied by Malstisos.”
“I know of him,” said Theopolou. “His father and I fought together in the Great War.”
“He has left Althetas to go north to the Steppes.” Linis paused. “To face judgment.”
“For what purpose?” he asked, taken aback.
“I do not have enough information to say for certain,” said Linis. “But I think you should speak to Maybell.”
“I will send for her after the council meets.” Theopolou stood. “And you should not delay any longer, my friend.”
Linis got to his feet and sighed. “It seems I am ever traveling. But, you are right. Every moment is precious. Farewell, Theopolou. May the Creator bless you.”
“And you,” he replied, smiling.
Once Linis left, Theopolou sat back down and tried to clear his mind. He felt age gathering upon him as he thumbed through the pages of his book. The journey to the Steppes weighed heavily on his mind, and the fact that Malstisos had gone to face his judgment could complicate matters. He put the book down and slipped into bed. A bit of sleep would do him good.
A few hours later, he rose and dressed for the banquet. The king’s manor was vast and boasted a dining hall large enough to seat more than two-hundred guests. It had been built just after the Great War. It stood three stories high, and was constructed from hard, black stone, quarried from the lands just south of the Steppes. Though the décor was not elaborate, it suited the personality of Althetas and its people. Tapestries of great warships and valiant warriors hung on the walls of the larger room, alongside paintings of former kings. There were also sculptures of various lords and heroes. The furniture was diverse, as one would expect from a port city. Examples of styles from all over the world were found in every room. Theopolou even spotted a few tables and chairs of elf make. He had seen paintings of the original building. It was much smaller than what stood presently. He was told that each new king adds a little bit to the manor.
The